How to open water tank access port?

[BarryK]

Hi all,

I need to open the access port in order to repair or replace the sending unit for the level gauge. Is this a screw type port? If so, what type of tool can I use to open it? This is on a 1990 Santego 3467.

Thanks,
Barry

Water Tank Access Port.jpg

[Midnightsun]

Yep, just unscrew. Should be able to do this by hand as there is simply an o-ring doing the sealing. If it seems stuck, maybe a strap wrench can work on this. Once open, remove the o-ring and coat is with silicon lube or something similar to lubricate the o-ring which will extend the life substantially not to mention make it easier to open by hand if you need to service again sometime down the road.

[Viper]

Use something with a flat end to like a piece of wood and hammer it against the side of one of the 4 tabs to break it free, then you should be able to spin it by hand. Don't use a screw driver for that because you'll start cutting into the tab. For closing, tighten by hand, then use the same tools for retightening but don't overdo it, one or two short taps should be enough.

[Phrancus]

had the same question, previous owner tried to lift it with a screwdriver and broke a piece off.

once I had the whole thing outside I noticed the thread and could unscrew it with considerable force. Lubricated the O-ring and now it's easy.

try to push on two tabs on opposite sides to turn the lid, a (wet) towel helped to get grip on all four and then turn.

Just need to figure out a way to clean the inside more thoroughly. Perhaps with something like beads, plus water and shake the whole thing (it's still out of the boat )

[Viper]

Fill the tank about a quarter of the way with water and add a few bags of ice. Shake the tank for a few minutes and the ice will scrub the inside of the tank. If applicable, make sure you remove the sender first. This can be done with the tank in the boat too, you just have to take the boat out for a rough ride.

[BarryK]

Thanks all!

I am headed back to the marina this evening. I will troubleshoot the sending unit when I get it out. There is a backing ring for the sender on the inside of the tank that is not attached to the tank. I need to get my hand in there to grab ring.

Barry

[Phrancus]

Thanks Viper, just a small thing: we don't have ice like you do in the US. It would take my fridge a week to produce enough ice cubes

I don't have a sender in the tank, the tank was a yellowish brown with grease smears all over when I took it out. Much cleaner now.

Did the turning work Barry?

[Viper]

Wait a minute, don't you have any snow capped mountains out there?

[tomschauer]

No ice? How do mix a drink?

[BarryK]

I got it open using an old Craftsman chain wrench! That tool comes in handy. I also use it to adjust the packing glands, for the lock nut.

Thank you!

Water tank open.jpg